asked the Minister for Local Government the action he proposes to take to ensure that the counting of votes in local authority elections will be completed as quickly as possible.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Local Elections Vote Counting.
16.
The responsibility for the conduct of a local election, including the counting of votes, is placed by law on the returning officer who is the secretary or clerk of the local authority concerned. The law requires that the count must commence at 9 o'clock on the morning after polling day. I have advised returning officers that the count for all electoral areas should as far as possible, proceed simultaneously and have asked them to employ a sufficient number of competent staff for the count.
Could the Minister state if he is satisfied that sufficient moneys will be provided to the returning officers to enable them to employ sufficient staff? I understand this is one of the complaints due to the increased costs.
Of course, as the Deputy is aware, responsibility is on the local authorities to provide the necessary moneys and it is up to them to ensure that the arrangements being made are adequate to ensure a quick result.
Will the Minister keep an eye on it?
Yes, I will keep a very careful eye on it.